Flourless Puffed Potatoes with Parmesan

Transform ordinary potatoes into an extraordinary culinary experience with this incredibly simple yet impressive flourless puffed potato recipe. Using just three basic ingredients, these golden, airy potato soufflés will become your new favorite way to prepare potatoes. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients

  • 5 medium or large potatoes (about 1 kg / 2.2 lbs)
  • 3 large eggs
  • 80g grated Parmesan cheese (3 oz / ¾ cup)
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for color and flavor)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

Wash 5 medium or large potatoes thoroughly. Cook whole potatoes in the oven at 190°C (375°F) for 50 minutes, or use an air fryer at roasting mode for 25-30 minutes until tender.

Step 2: Create Potato Shells

Once cooked, cut a small cap off the top of each potato. Carefully hollow out the flesh, leaving a thick wall to maintain structure. Set the caps aside for later use.

Step 3: Make the Filling Base

Mash the potato flesh into a smooth purée. Separate the 3 eggs, adding yolks directly to the mashed potatoes. Mix in 80g grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley if using.

Step 4: Prepare Egg Whites

Beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form, approximately 1-1.5 minutes. First, fold in one-third of the beaten whites vigorously to lighten the mixture.

Step 5: Fold Remaining Whites

Using a spatula, gently fold in the remaining egg whites with lifting motions from center outward, creating a light and airy filling.

Step 6: Fill and Bake

Fill each potato shell to the brim with the fluffy mixture. Bake at 190°C (375°F) for 30 minutes until golden and puffed.

Step 7: Use Leftover Caps

Cut reserved potato caps into cubes, mix with any remaining filling, and cook in air fryer for 15 minutes or oven for 20 minutes until golden.

Time and Serving Information

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 80 minutes total
  • Servings: 5 portions
  • Difficulty: Easy

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 280
  • Protein: 12g
  • Carbohydrates: 35g
  • Fat: 8g
  • Fiber: 3g

Why This Recipe is Healthy

These flourless puffed potatoes offer a nutritious alternative to traditional fried potato dishes. Potatoes provide essential potassium, vitamin C, and fiber, while eggs contribute high-quality protein and essential amino acids. Parmesan cheese adds calcium and protein without excessive calories. The baking method eliminates unhealthy frying oils, making this a lighter option that’s naturally gluten-free and suitable for various dietary needs.

The recipe maximizes nutrition by using whole potatoes with their skins during cooking, preserving valuable nutrients. The addition of fresh parsley provides vitamin K and antioxidants, while the soufflé-like preparation method creates a satisfying, protein-rich meal that can serve as a complete vegetarian dinner or elegant side dish.